Vol. 7, Issue 2, Part H (2025)

Amaranthus spinosus L., commonly known as spiny amaranth, is a medicinally important plant that has been widely recognized in traditional systems of medicine for the treatment of inflammatory conditions, wounds, fever, and gastrointestinal disorders. The plant is rich in diverse phytoconstituents such as flavonoids, alkaloids, phenolic compounds, terpenoids, saponins, and glycosides, which are largely responsible for its broad spectrum of pharmacological activities. Among these, its anti-inflammatory potential has drawn significant scientific interest in recent years.
Several experimental studies have demonstrated that extracts of A. spinosus possess potent anti-inflammatory activity in both in vitro and in vivo models. The underlying mechanisms are attributed to modulation of multiple molecular targets including cyclooxygenase (COX) and lipoxygenase (LOX) enzymes, inhibition of nitric oxide (NO) and pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6, along with enhancement of antioxidant defences. These actions result in the attenuation of oxidative stress and the suppression of acute as well as chronic inflammatory responses. Additionally, the synergistic effect of various phytochemicals may contribute to its overall therapeutic efficacy.
Despite these promising findings, most studies on A. spinosus remain confined to preliminary pharmacological investigations and preclinical evaluations. Limited data are available on standardized dosage forms, toxicity profiles, bioavailability, and clinical trials, which restrict its translation into modern evidence-based medicine. Future research focusing on phytochemical isolation, molecular docking, and Nano formulation approaches, and well-designed clinical studies will be essential to validate its therapeutic role and promote its utilization in phytopharmaceutical development.
This review integrates ethnomedicinal knowledge and modern pharmacological evidence, providing a comprehensive outlook on the anti-inflammatory potential of Amaranthus spinosus. It highlights its relevance as a promising candidate for developing safe, effective, and affordable herbal therapeutics targeting inflammatory disorders.